Alina’s POV
“Huh!” I stammered, my throat tightening.
“Tell me this is a joke,” my mom demanded, her voice sharp and trembling with anger.
“It is a joke,” I rushed out, and her shoulders instantly loosened, relief washing over her face. “I only said that to turn down Dad’s offer,” I added, forcing myself to steady my tone. I turned to face him, my voice firmer now. “Dad, you really don’t have to worry about me. I’m capable of taking care of myself. I don’t need to leave the country because of a few setbacks. I can handle it.”
My father’s jaw tightened. “Alina, I want your safety. I don’t want a raging man anywhere near you again,” he said gravely, and I knew exactly who he meant—Elias.
“I agree with Alina,” my mom interjected, her voice clipped. “She doesn’t need to move out of the co
